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First revision of accessibility design standard in 25 years

The revision of NZS 4121 Design for access and mobility - Buildings and associated facilities, the principal reference point for accessibility design in New Zealand, gets underway this month.

Building System Performance (BSP - the building regulator) in the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and Ministry of Disabled People - Whaikaha are partnering on this Standards New Zealand (SNZ) project which is focused on improving access and usability for everyone.

Standards New Zealand National Manager, Malcolm MacMillan, says there have been significant advances in accessible design and technology since the last review of the standard almost 25 years ago.

“This includes, for example, Universal Design principles - making buildings accessible to all people of all abilities at any stage of life, emergency egress, and sensory accessibility including broader definitions of disability. To that last point, it’s notable that we are, for the first time, incorporating neurodiversity into the scope,” he says.

Neurodiversity includes but is not limited to ADHD, autism and dyslexia.

Ministry of Disabled People - Whaikaha Deputy Chief Executive, Rebecca Elvy, says the revision is being informed by the experiences and perspectives of disabled people with their input through scoping workshops, and further opportunities to contribute through public consultation as the revision progresses.

“Disabled people should be able to access and use buildings and public spaces without unnecessary barriers. Updating this standard is an opportunity to better reflect the diverse needs of disabled people. Creating more accessible environments also benefits older people, families with young children, and many others who use those spaces every day,” she says.

Public consultation of the proposed revision of the standard is proposed for late 2027 with the anticipated publication of the revised standard in 2028. These dates may change.

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Notes to editors

  • NZS 4121 Design for access and mobility - Buildings and associated facilities was last reviewed in 2001.
  • The revision of the standard will consider elements such as clearer wayfinding, improved signage, safer circulation routes, better lighting, and intuitive building layouts that can make buildings and associated facilities easier to access and use.
  • Public consultation is expected in late 2027. Publication of the revised standard is expected in 2028. Timeframes may change as the revision progresses.
  • More information on the revision is available at Revision of New Zealand Standard 4121:2001